COVID-19 Testing at Stanford Children’s Health

The health and safety of our patients, families, and staff are important to us. As part of our response to COVID-19, we continue to follow all recommendations by the CDC to keep our community safe. We have started testing of all our patients even if they do not have symptoms. We will test patients before procedures, diagnostic imaging, and hospital admission. This handout will tell you what to expect.

Why is testing for COVID-19 being done?

We know that some patients may have the COVID-19 virus before they start to feel sick. It can take
2 to 14 days after someone is exposed to the virus for symptoms to show up.

Knowing if someone may have COVID-19 will help us better prepare. We will be able to use the appropriate safety precautions.

Where does my child go for testing?

• Patients with a scheduled procedure or diagnostic imaging appointment: A member of the care team will call you to schedule an appointment for testing. During that phone call, they will tell you where your child will need to go.
• Patients that are being admitted to the hospital: Will have the test done before or at admission.

What can I expect during the test?

When you and your child arrive, a team of health care providers will be wearing masks, gloves, eye protection, and gowns for testing. This test uses a swab, like a long Q–tip, that will be placed in your child’s nose. It will irritate the nose and will not feel comfortable. This swab may cause sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes.

How can I help my child prepare for the test?

Some things that might help prepare your child for testing would be to let them know that:

• The test helps with their care at the hospital
• The care providers will be wearing special clothes to keep everyone safe from getting germs
• The Q-tips will be long and placed in their nose
• They can help by trying to sit still during the test
• You will be there to help them

Other things that may help during the test could be:

• Listening to soft music
• Counting
• Taking a deep breath

What if my child has tested negative for COVID-19 already? Is re-testing needed?

Your child may be re-tested if they:

• Have new COVID-19 symptoms
• Are not hospitalized and were tested more than 14 days ago
• Are scheduled for high-risk procedures like endonasal surgery, transsphenoidal procedures, and FESS due to fungal sinusitis
• Were recently in contact with someone with COVID-19 in the past 14 days

If your child was tested when they were admitted into the hospital and they don’t have any new
COVID-19 symptoms, they will not be re-tested unless they are having special procedures.

What if my child tests positive for COVID-19?

Our care team will make sure that your child receives the care they need. Our doctors will work together with you to decide what is the safest plan.

I have concerns or questions about testing. Who should I talk to?

For any questions or concerns about testing, please talk to your child’s care team. COVID-19 testing is one way our hospital can keep all our patients and families safe.

Author: The Office of Patient and Family Education and Health Literacy Medical Review: COVID-19 Command Center